Synology Note Station Client 3.0
For many users, especially newcomers, Synology is primarily associated with data backup. While this is true, it’s also important to recognize that their DiskStation Manager (DSM) OS serves as a platform for a wide range of specialized applications, including backup, surveillance, and productivity tools.
Among these, there are numerous apps, some popular and others more niche. Today, we are announcing the upcoming release of version 3.0 of their Note Station desktop client.
Currently in beta, with the version number 3.0.0-883, the release notes for the Note Station client are modest. This update focuses on the client itself, rather than the server-side platform.
Release notes
Important Notes
- Replaced the computer's default operating system context menu with a streamlined custom menu containing only application-relevant options.
Compatibility & Installation
- This version is only compatible with Note Station running on DSM 7.0 and above.
- Improved performance and ensures compatibility with future desktop operating systems.
What's New
- Added support for remembering passwords for quicker access.
From the release notes, it appears there are no major new features, aside from some compatibility improvements. However, the new client has been rebuilt with a redesigned architecture, providing enhanced update flexibility, improved security through OS-provided cryptographic systems, and a faster login experience, thanks to the new “Remember Password” option.
Compatible with all major desktop platforms, the 3.0 client version requires a Note Station server component on top of DSM 7.0 or later.
The look and feel remain consistent with a familiar light turquoise color theme, present both on the login screen and throughout the application.
The main interface has not undergone major changes in years, neither structurally nor from a user experience perspective. In fact, the small font size does not align with the updated interface style seen in recent remasters like Calendar 3.0. As a result, this milestone feels more substantial than what the actual updates deliver.
Luka Manestar
With intense competition in the note-taking app market, it is curious that the company has not allocated more attention and resources to this area. However, perhaps this marks the beginning of a new phase with version 3.0. Now that the new architecture is in place, there may be opportunities for further improvements in both UI/UX and the feature set.
A simple example of potential improvement is import/export compatibility. Although this is currently only a client update, it is unlikely to see significant new features without corresponding server-side updates. At present, Note Station platforms still only support their proprietary NSX file format, effectively locking users into the platform.
While this approach makes sense from a proprietary standpoint, allowing at least some open compatibility—perhaps with limited functionalities—would be a valuable step forward for Synology. It could encourage users to try the platform and potentially consider switching.
Currently, this beta is limited to the desktop platform, meaning that the mobile version is not available at this time.
Finally, please remember that this is still a beta version. Be sure to read the attached announcements and warnings before installing it on your production environment.
Please read the following before installing this beta software.
- For evaluation only - This beta software is for evaluation purposes only and should not be installed on critical equipment or in production environments. We strongly recommend reading the Release notes section before installing it. Synology cannot be held responsible for any damages, such as accidental data loss, caused by this beta software.
- Not downgradable - After installation of this beta application, you will not be able to downgrade to a previous official version of this software.
